Football
11 September, 2024
HDFNL GF Preview: Shelley exploding up forward
Noradjuha Quantong's half-forward Dylan Shelley has been shining up forward in recent weeks, kicking three and four goals to be best on the ground in the semi-final against Pimpinio and four on Saturday against the Swifts in the preliminary final.
Shelley played for Springbank in the Central Highlands League for the last two years. He moved to Horsham in April, and it took a few weeks to get his clearance organised, so he didn't debut until round four.
He played five games before his injury, which kept him out for two months. He returned against Rupanyup in round 17, but it's been around 18 that he has starred in the forward line. He kicked four goals in that match against Pimpinio, and on Saturday, with his next four, he brought his tally to 12 in the last four weeks.
Shelley said the connection he had through the club was coach Damian Cameron.
"My brother-in-law knew Damian, and they had played together previously, so I called Damian, and things went from there," Shelley said.
"I have never really had a set position, but this year, I have played more up forward, which is handy as it has brought more consistency to my game, and I have been given a license to do anything.
Shelley has played in two losing grand finals in the last two years and hopes this year will be different. When asked what advice he would give his teammates, he said to enjoy the week.
"I am hoping to change that this year. We are playing well and have a good chance to win," Shelley said.
"I'll just get around the boys this week as it's just another game of footy, but one that means a little bit more, so they just have to enjoy it.
"There will be a big crowd, so I will encourage them to get around it, be happy, and go from there."